Leviathans

Catalyst Game Labs · Board game · 2012
— Ludopedia 7.1 BGG 2–8 · best 2 90 min Weight 3.0/5
Buy
— rating Ludopedia
7.1 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

Leviathans is a hidden gem for fans of tactical simulation and miniatures. The experience of commanding massive flying dreadnoughts in an alternate steampunk setting is incredibly immersive and rewarding. If you love naval combat games but crave a unique twist and deep strategy, you will feel right at home. It is a game that requires patience and dedication, but it delivers an epic sense of aerial warfare like few others.

Highlights
  • Highly detailed ship miniatures
  • Well-crafted steampunk setting
  • Deep tactical simulation feel
  • Tense and epic aerial combat
Keep in mind
  • Steep learning curve for newcomers
  • Heavy reliance on dice luck
  • Playtime can be quite long
Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.

About the game

What you do in a play session

Imagine if, back in 1878, a Polish genius had discovered a way to make massive objects defy gravity. In Leviathans, that is exactly what happened. Forget about battleships patrolling the oceans; in this alternate history, military might has taken to the skies. By 1910, the world is locked in a fierce arms race, and you are cast as a captain commanding fleets of armored warships that dominate the clouds in intense, tactical combat.

This game is a dream come true for fans of tactical combat simulations. You will command everything from the colossal 'King Leviathans'—massive flying fortresses that anchor your battle line—to smaller, agile cruisers and destroyers used for support and flanking maneuvers. The experience is deep and simulation-heavy, requiring you to think like a naval strategist while managing the weight and limitations of these mechanical behemoths. The steampunk atmosphere is thick, and every decision regarding movement or artillery fire could mean the difference between glorious victory and a fiery descent to the earth.

If you enjoy miniatures games with an alternate history twist and don't mind getting into the weeds of tactical detail, Leviathans offers a level of immersion that is hard to match. It is a game that demands careful planning, a bit of luck with the dice, and, above all, the drive to see the sky filled with fire and steel. Prepare to order your fleet to launch, dial in your cannons, and prove that your nation is destined to rule the skies. The question is: will you be remembered as a legendary admiral, or will your fleet become just another burning wreck falling from the clouds? The outcome rests in your hands—and at the mercy of the dice.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

1 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–8 players
2 BEST
3 REC
4 REC
5 OK
6 OK
7 OK
8 OK

Where to Buy

Prices monitored daily

Finding best prices...

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability subject to change.

Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Theme: Alternate History Theme: Steampunk
Publisher Catalyst Game Labs
Designer John Haward, Randall N. Bills
Artist Doug Chaffee

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

771owners
320wishlist
51want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How many players can play?
The game supports 2 to 8 players, making it great for both head-to-head duels and team-based battles.
How long does a game take?
Expect a standard game to last around 90 minutes, depending on the scenario and the number of players involved.
Is it hard to learn?
With a weight of 3.02, it has a moderate complexity. It's approachable for wargame veterans but might be a bit much for absolute beginners.
Is the game luck-heavy?
Since it uses dice rolling for combat, luck is a factor, but tactical positioning and fleet management are what truly determine the winner.
What comes in the box?
The core of the game is the detailed ship miniatures and the components needed to track movement, altitude, and damage for these flying behemoths.
Do I need expansions to play?
The base game is a complete experience and provides enough scenarios to keep you busy for many hours before you'll feel the need for more.

Other Games You'll Like

Based on mechanics and theme

7 games